MLS Multiplex
Fansided

Ranking the Winningest MLS Franchises in League History

By Nathan Reynolds

Dec 10, 2016; Toronto, Canada; A giant replica of the Philip F. Anschutz Trophy is seen at center field before the 2016 MLS Cup between the Toronto FC and the Seattle Sounders at BMO Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 10, 2016; Toronto, Canada; A giant replica of the Philip F. Anschutz Trophy is seen at center field before the 2016 MLS Cup between the Toronto FC and the Seattle Sounders at BMO Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
20 of 23
Next

Embed from Getty Images

#4 – Tampa Bay Munity

Matches Played: 198

Wins: 83

Percentage: 42.9%

There are only three franchises that have ever had to fold from MLS. The Tampa Bay Munity shows the distinct difference how franchise struggles were handled during MLS history. While Chivas faded away, both with low fans and success, the Munity was very different.

With Carlos Valderrama leading the way, Tampa Bay finished 1st in the East in the opening MLS season, only to lose to eventual champions DC United. The team made the playoffs four of its six seasons in MLS, but ultimately folded in 2001. Low revenues and attendance impacted the team, both which would have been higher in today’s MLS landscape and soccer culture.

Simply a victim of being a bit too early before the league could support struggling teams. A return to MLS could be in the future of Tampa Bay though, as the city and the USL Tampa Bay Rowdies have put forth an MLS expansion bid.

Home/All-Time Lists